Orla Kiely shops cease trading

19 Sep 2018 , 4:37pm

The fashion designer's shops went into administration on Monday and 55 staff have been made redundant.

Orla Kiely shops shut

Fashion and homeware retailer Orla Kiely has shut its shops in London and Ireland after its parent company Kiely Rowan went into administration. The company, which specialised in vintage 1970s-inspired prints, ceased trading on Monday and David Ruben & Partners have been appointed as administrators. However, Orla Kiely Home and Design-branded accessories and homeware will still be sold through partners.

Retrospective

Fashion designer Ms Kiely currently has a retrospective show at the Fashion and Textile Museum in London entitled Orla Kiely: A Life in Pattern which ends on 23 September. The show features over 150 patterns and products, as well as collaborations with photographers, film directors and architects. Highlights include the original paper sketches for the trademark ‘Stem’ graphic, created in the 1990s, which has evolved to feature on everything from mugs and dresses to notebooks and even cars, plus prototypes for her early signature bags and the evolution of the iconic ‘Pear’ and ‘Flower’ designs, according to the website.

Homewares and licensing

A spokesman said:'Thank you for embracing our brand and designs throughout the years and for your ongoing support,' adding 'Orla Kiely’s home and design licensing business will not be affected, and its selection of accessories and homewares will continue to be sold through its distribution partners.'